On this day (May 28) nine years ago, the Seasiders claimed a 2-1 victory over Exeter City at Wembley to secure promotion back to the third tier just 12 months on from being relegated.
Brad Potts and Mark Cullen were both on the scoresheet for Gary Bowyer’s side – who battled hard throughout the season despite off-field issues for the club.
Just over 5,000 Blackpool fans made the trip to the national stadium due to the game coming in a period of boycott, which continued until the 2019 takeover.
Here’s where the 2017 play-off winning squad are now:
1. Gary Bowyer
Gary Bowyer was the manager that led Blackpool to play-off success in 2017. The 54-year-old is currently in charge of Burton Albion, and has steered them to League One safety two seasons running. Photo: Barrington Coombs
2. Sam Slocombe
Goalkeeper Sam Slocombe made 46 appearances for Blackpool during the 2016/17 season. Having finished his playing career with Notts County, the 37-year-old has remained at Meadow Lane as part of Martin Paterson's backroom staff, and has recently enjoyed League Two play-off success once again. Photo: Justin Setterfield
3. Will Aimson
After initially joining Blackpool on loan in 2015, Will Aimson made the move permanent and went on to make 69 appearances for the club. The defender is currently a free agent after being released by Wigan Athletic earlier this month. Photo: Barrington Coombs
4. Tom Aldred
After playing in Australia for a few years, former Seasiders skipper Tom Aldred has spent the last couple of seasons with Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League. Photo: Justin Setterfield
5. Clark Robertson
Clark Robertson, who featured 137 times during his spell at Bloomfield Road, has been with Dundee since 2024 after spending time playing for F.C. Ashdod in Israel. Photo: Justin Setterfield
6. Kelvin Mellor
Kelvin Mellor, who was with Blackpool between 2016 and 2018, returned to Nantwich Town a couple of years ago, having started his career with the Dabbers. Photo: Justin Setterfield